Panasonic ZS8 vs Sony NEX-5

Following is a comprehensive assessment of the Panasonic ZS8 vs Sony NEX-5, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the ZS8 (14MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is pretty similar but the ZS8 (1/2.3") and NEX-5 (APS-C) use different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The ZS8 was released 14 months after the NEX-5 which makes the cameras a generation away from one another. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZS8 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the ZS8 grades versus the NEX-5 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8 & Sony Alpha NEX-5. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS8 Gallery & Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZS8 features external dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-5 has sizing of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") along with a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic ZS8 vs Sony NEX-5 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you choose at that time. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the ZS8 against the NEX-5.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the ZS8 and NEX-5 is 92 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very hard to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes merely by reviewing specifications. The pic below may offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS8 and NEX-5.

To sum up, both of these cameras posses the exact same megapixels albeit different sensor sizes. The ZS8 offers the tinier sensor which will make achieving bokeh more difficult. The fresher ZS8 provides an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.